Antonio Conte replies when asked about Chelsea signings in January
The Chelsea manager is being realistic about the defending champions' pinpointing adequate signings in January
Antonio Conte insists Chelsea have to be realistic about potential signings in the January transfer window.
The Blues suffered a surprise 1-0 loss to Premier League strugglers West Ham United at the London Stadium last weekend to prompt Conte to call time on Chelsea’s title challenge.
The defending Premier League champions fell 14 points adrift of leaders Manchester City following their loss in east London ahead of their trip to Huddersfield Town.
The title holders look unlikely to win their third title in four season following a disappointing opening four months to the defence of their top-flight crown.
Chelsea have lost 3-2 to Burnley at Stamford Bridge in their opening Premier League fixture to raise concerns about Conte’s strength depth.
The west London outfit lost 1-0 to Premier League leaders Manchester City at the end of September before a 2-1 defeat at relegation candidates Crystal Palace.
Chelsea signed six players in the summer transfer window but Spain international Alvaro Morata is lacking cover up front.
Speaking to the media ahead of Chelsea’s clash against Huddersfield Town, Conte opened up about potential signings at Stamford Bridge next month.
“I don’t know because in January you have to wait the right time to adapt new players in our idea of football,” Conte said.
“I have to be realistic, we have to face this situation with these players. I’m happy to play with these players. January is too far and I don’t know what will happen on January.
“I’m the coach, I can give my opinion, but the club has to take the best decision in the summer, in January, next summer.
“We can have an idea but you can have an idea in summer. But the final decision is always the clubs. That will be the same in January. It is right to do this, I’m only the coach and not sporting director or manager.”
Chelsea won the Premier League title last season after finishing seven points clear of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur in Conte’s first campaign in charge.
